Startup Interactive Map

• May 16, 2024

The RAISE project team launched an innovative interactive map, now available on the project website, showcasing regional support policies and measures for startups across the European Union. This new resource, developed under the RAISE Project Work Package 3 – Preparation for Future Implementation of Common Action Plans, is designed to assist startups in navigating the diverse landscape of regional support programs.

The RAISE project aims to foster an interconnected space for startups through ongoing cooperation and knowledge exchange between associations. Key objectives include driving impact towards scale-ups, planning joint actions to help startups scale, and contributing to the development of startup-friendly regional policies.

Given the dynamic nature of startup policies in Europe, the RAISE Consortium conducted an in-depth qualitative and quantitative analysis of the current state of entrepreneurship, R&D, and the growth potential of startups. Recognizing the vital economic and societal role of innovation-driven startups, this analysis emphasized the need for multi-actor collaboration and the creation of interdisciplinary connections between startups and relevant stakeholders.

To address the gaps in startup support at the EU level, the Consortium evaluated the evolution of startup-friendly regional policies and programs funded by European Structural and Investment Funds (ESIF) and the Next Generation EU program. As part of this effort, EURADA and FUNDECYT-Science and Technology Park of Extremadura collected regional experiences and examples from EU NUTS 2 territories, focusing on services supporting startup growth, capacity building, and access to funding.

The interactive map is closely linked to the project deliverable D3.2.2 – Guide on How to Use Funds for Startup Support, which offers additional information on funding sources and practical examples.

Methodology Behind the Interactive Map:

1. Survey Creation: Fundecyt drafted a comprehensive survey titled “Benchmark Startup Friendly Policies in Europe,” gathering data on programs, funding sources, regional impacts, and more.
2. Survey Dissemination: The survey was distributed online and in paper format, supported by a social media campaign and targeted messaging through EURADA’s network.
3. Data Collection: Data collected through the EU Survey was compiled and analyzed, with the most relevant initiatives selected for inclusion on the map.
4. Map Creation: Through consultations and meetings between EURADA and iCorsa, the map was developed using a Plugin for enhanced functionality and designed for user-friendliness.

The map currently includes information on five European regions (Portugal, Spain, Italy, Croatia, and Romania) and 15 initiatives funded by EU Structural Funds. Users can navigate the map, click on pins for detailed information about each initiative, and access program webpages for more details.

The interactive map is now live and accessible here: https://theraise.eu/interactive-map/

A crucial tool for entrepreneurs seeking to leverage European Structural and Investment Funds: The RAISE initiative, over the past two years, has provided an integrated approach to supporting startups and scale-ups. By addressing the information gap and the challenges startups face in accessing funds, this map serves as a crucial tool for entrepreneurs seeking to leverage European Structural and Investment Funds. It underscores the European Union’s commitment to fostering a robust entrepreneurial ecosystem and supports startups in integrating into the economic fabric.